Designed by Noviun Architects and delivered in partnership with Tilbury Douglas for the Department for Education, the new St John’s Catholic Primary School replaces the previous building following the discovery of Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC) within the structure.
St John’s Catholic Primary School is the first school in the UK to reopen following a full rebuild triggered by the discovery of RAAC, a lightweight concrete used widely in public buildings between the 1950s and 1990s. Concerns about the structural integrity of RAAC have led to widespread surveys of the education estate across the country after it was found that the material could deteriorate and potentially fail without warning.
RAAC school rebuild St John’s Catholic Primary School
At St John’s, RAAC was identified during a structural assessment of the existing school building, leading to the decision to demolish and rebuild the facility as part of the Department for Education’s School Rebuilding Programme.
For pupils, staff and families, the journey has included a period of learning in temporary accommodation while plans for a permanent solution were developed and delivered.
The completion of the new building therefore, represents a major moment for the school community, providing a safe, modern environment in which pupils can thrive.
A School Designed for the Future
The new St John’s Catholic Primary School provides high-quality teaching and learning spaces designed to support both academic achievement and pupil wellbeing.
The new facilities include:
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Modern classrooms and specialist teaching spaces
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A Wi-Fi-enabled outdoor classroom
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Dedicated practical learning facilities
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A Multi-Use Games Area and 3G sports pitch
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High-quality outdoor play and learning environments
Together, these features provide a modern and flexible learning environment that supports the school’s long-term vision and the needs of its pupils and staff. The project also incorporates sustainable design principles, supporting the Department for Education’s ambition to create high-performing, future-ready education buildings.
St John’s Catholic Primary School Opening – Credit All Saints Catholic Academy Trust
A New Chapter for St John’s Catholic Primary School
With the completion of the new building, St John’s Catholic Primary School begins an exciting new chapter.
For Noviun, it has been a privilege to contribute to a project that not only replaces a building affected by RAAC but also delivers a safe, inspiring and future-focused learning environment for the Rickmansworth community.
We look forward to seeing pupils, staff and families enjoying their new school for many years to come.
